Back to Local SEO Conversion Playbook

How to get more calls from Google Maps

Small changes that increase phone calls without increasing ad spend. Focus on what actually moves the needle.

5 min read Updated March 2025
Jump to Tactics
Google Maps navigation
3
Key Factors
Relevance
Categories & description
Trust
Reviews & photos
Activity
Posts & Q&A

Key Takeaways

Google Maps rankings are driven by three factors: relevance, trust, and activity. Optimize for all three to get more calls without spending more on ads.

1

Improve Relevance

Help Google understand what you do so you show up for the right searches.

Tighten Your Categories

Choose the most specific primary category that describes your core business.

Clear Description

Write a short 250-word description with your main services and service area.

Services List

List all your services with brief descriptions. Match how customers search.

Service Area

Set your service area to include all the cities and neighborhoods you serve.

2

Build Trust

More reviews and better photos signal reliability to Google and customers.

Review Quantity

Aim for at least 50 reviews. More reviews = more trust signals.

Recency Matters

Get new reviews regularly. A steady stream beats a large bulk from years ago.

Real Photos

Upload actual photos of your business, team, and work. Skip stock photos.

Accurate Hours

Keep your hours updated, especially holidays. Set special hours for peak times.

3

Increase Activity

Regular activity on your profile signals that your business is active and engaged.

Weekly Posts

Post short updates weekly. Offers, tips, or news about your business.

Q&A

Monitor and answer questions. Add your own Q&A with common questions.

Monthly Photos

Add new photos monthly to keep your profile fresh and engaging.

Quick Win: Make the Call Button Work

This seems obvious but many businesses lose calls because the call button does not work or the phone number is wrong. Check that your phone number is EXACTLY the same in these 3 places: (1) Website footer, (2) Website contact page, (3) Google Business Profile. Any difference can hurt your rankings.

Service Area Best Practices

  • Set service area to include all cities and regions you serve
  • Use neighborhood and regional names in your description when relevant
  • Get reviews from customers who mention their location

Ready to get more calls from Google Maps?

Get a free Google Maps audit. We will review your profile and give you a prioritized action plan to increase calls.

Get Your Free Audit

No commitment required